Artificial intelligence monitors bus and taxi drivers in Ras Al Khaimah

System can check if driver is tired or driving too fast

Artificial intelligence is being used to assess taxi and bus drivers in Ras Al Khaimah. Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority

A new artificial intelligence system is being used in Ras Al Khaimah to monitor bus and taxi drivers.

The emirate's transport authority (Rakta) announced that cameras were to be fitted to the front of each bus and taxi to assess stress levels and signs of fatigue in drivers' faces.

The system, known as Shaheen, also tracks the speed of the vehicle and can ascertain if the driver is braking too hard, making sudden turns or is distracted.

The technology can check if a mobile phone is being used by a driver at the wheel.

Data is sent to the Rakta control centre to allow “immediate measures” to be taken.

"This ensures drivers' commitment to the rules and principles of their profession," said Esmaeel Al Blooshi, Rakta general manager.

“It also motivates them to observe the best behaviour when dealing with transport users to achieve the highest safety standards.”